Todd Helton undergoes successful hip surgery

Todd Helton underwent successful surgery on his left hip labrum Friday. Obviously, no doctor is going to announce that the surgery didn’t go well. But the surgery did not feature any surprises.

Helton, who will 39 on Aug. 20, elected to have the season-ending procedure done this week to give him ample time to prepare for spring training. He has one year remaining on his contract at $5 million. His plan is to return, but it depends, in part, on his recovery and where he fits going forward.

Helton’s hip began bothering him in late May and early June, compromising his power. With Helton out, the Rockies have played several players at first base, including Matt McBride, Michael Cuddyer and Tyler Colvin. Cuddyer, out with an oblique injury, is progressing and could begin a rehab assignment early next week.

Patrick, a third-generation Colorado native, is back for his second stint covering the Rockies. He first covered the team from 2005-2009, helping chronicle “Rocktober” in 2007 and also following the team’s playoff run in 2009.

Nick Groke has worked at The Denver Post since 1997, as a sports reporter, city reporter, entertainment writer and digital editor and producer, among other newsroom posts. He also writes regularly about boxing, soccer, MMA and NASCAR.